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In celebration of the 81st Dia de la Ciudad de Zamboanga, the City Government once again hosted the Zamboanga Film Festival. Now on its third year, #ZFF2018 selected 20 short films produced by Zamboangueño filmmakers and animators. The finalists composed of 10 live action short films and 10 animated shorts (Click here for the list of short film finalists). The films were screened at Centro Latino Theater, Paseo del Mar, from February 19 to 23 which was watched by high schools and colleges in the city. The awards night was held on February 25, 7PM at Centro Latino main hall.

Here are the list of nominees and winners of the Zamboanga Film Festival 2018:

Best Film (Animation):- Peacekeeper by Joshua Dela Cruz
Joshua dela Cruz, director/animator of Peacemaker, won Best Director, Best Original Story, Best Culture-Sensitive Film and the Grand Prize - Best Film (Animation Category)Cast and crew of Grand Prize Winner - Best Film (Live Action Category), Manchao by Jhonathan Andalahao

Congratulations to all nominees and awardees! Happy Dia de la Ciudad de Zamboanga!
#ZFF2018 #DiaDeZamboanga #iLoveZamboangaCity

In line with the celebration of the 81st Dia de la Ciudad de Zamboanga, the City Government of Zamboanga organized the annual Zamboanga Film Festival to recognize the stories of Zamboanga through the medium of cinematography and animation. The competition has two categories: Live Action and Animation. Ten finalists for each category will be judged by a panel of film experts and the best film will receive P10,000 and a plaque.
The films will be screened at Centro Latino Theater Room from February 19 to 23, 2018 on these times: 9AM, 12NN, 3PM and 6PM. Schools were invited to watch the films and right after every screening, the viewers will vote for their favorite films. The films with the highest number of votes will be awarded with the Viewers Choice Award. Special awards will also be given during the Awards Night on February 25 at Centro Latino. The special awards for the Live Action category are: Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Production Design and Most Culturally-sensitive Film. And for the animation category, the special awards are: Best Director, Best Animator, Best Cinematography, Best Visual Effects, Best Character Design, and Most Culturally-sensitive film. All winners will receive a plaque and a cash prize of P1,500.
Here are the finalists for the Zamboanga Film Festival 2018.
Live Action Category Finalists:
"Goddess" by Jeremias Al-ag Dulaca III
"Loop" by Robi Brian Kang
"Silip (Peek)" by Mike Aaron Banguis
"Pag-ibig lang ang Meron Tayo" by Kim Tayona
"Globo (Balloon)" by Tennyl Dehm Canlas
"Manchao (Stained)" by Jonathan Andalahao
"Baka Sakali" by Jezreel Paul Nuñal
"Ocaso" by Mica Ruste
"Badusa (Sinners)" by Khadija Zubair Ahamed Kabeer
"Esta" by Sunshine Benitez
Enhorabuena! #ZFF2018
ZFF 2018 Animation Category Finalists:
"Behind Closed Doors" by Jorzheema J.i. Hamid
"Fuego (Fire)" by Ian Kenneth Baradeade
"Is It My Turn?" by Joshua Nacionales
"Si Ongka, El Aspin (Ongka, The Aspin)" by Frantz Sucro
"The Promise" by Hazel Rosie Bayaras
"Cast" by Khaled Majid
"Peacekeeper" by Joshua del Cruz
"Karoshi" by Megan Dayak
"Peste (Pest)" Kendrick Fernandez
"With Colors" by Dariel Dryan Tadus

February in Zamboanga City means it's #DiaDeZamboanga Season! A month-long festivity is prepared by the City Government and private partners to celebrate the Charter Day of Zamboanga City. There will be a sports festival, film festival, drum and lyre competition, a music fun run, a color fun run, and the highlight of the celebration, the Grand Civic-Military Parade and main program. Here's the complete lineup of events this month. For news and updates, visit and like the facebook page: Zamboanga Hermosa Festival and follow @zambocitygovt at Twitter and Instagram. Use the official hashtags: #DiaDeZamboanga and #iLoveZamboangaCity

January 31, 2018. 9:29PM. All eyes are on the sky as a very rare astronomical trifecta is seen on this side of the world, a "Super Blue Blood Moon". A supermoon happens when a full moon reaches a point in its orbit that’s closest to the Earth. This makes it look 14% bigger and 30% brighter than a regular full moon. A blue moon, on the other hand, refers to the second full moon of a month; while a blood moon is when a full moon turns red for a certain period of time during a total lunar eclipse. All of this awesomeness came together into one beautiful ‘super blue blood moon’ this night. Yes, all of it. In one.

The last time this (super blue blood moon) was observed in the Philippines was in December 30, 1982. If you missed this one, the next blue moon total lunar eclipse will happen on December 31, 2028, though it won't be quite as large since the moon will not be at its closest point to Earth. Another will happen on January 31, 2037, a total of 17 hours before perigee.

This photo is taken in Zamboanga City, Philippines using a Canon 70D, 18-135mm lens at 9:29PM. Follow me at Instagram and Twitter @cedzabala.

As the Grandest Festival of the reigon, Zamboanga Hermosa Festival will feature a lineup of competitions to showcase the talents of Zamboangueños and is also open to entire region. This year the Hermosa Festival Streetdance competition is now open to all cities and municipalities in the region and the grand winner will receive P300,000! Proud to be Asia's latin city, we also host the Dancesport Competition which attracted dancing couples across the nation.

1. The Bandoreal Parade is a traditional merrymaking activity by the folks in the barrio/barangay during fiesta celebrations. This competition was organized to help drum up noise and excitement in the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival Opening Salvo on October 1, 2017. The parade will start at the City Hall and end at the Zamboanga Grandstand.

2. Bandoreal Parade Competition is open to all barangays in Zamboanga city.

3. The basic requirements for the Bandoreal Parade entry include the following:
- Band or Drum & Lyre to serve as musical accompaniment
- Giants or Higantes
- Clowns or Payasos
- Costumes depicting fairies (diwatas), legendary heroes (darna, captain barbell etc.) and other mythical creatures in Philippine folklore, literature or pop culture.
- Props are also encouraged to highlight the merrymaking

4. The minimum number of performers per entry is 50 and the maximum is 100 members.

5. The use of fire, fire crackers, and pyrotechnics are strictly prohibited. Groups who will use these for special effects or for any other reason will be automatically disqualified.

6. The criteria for judging are the following:

A. CONCEPT AND CREATIVITY – 30%
• Interpretation and creative translation of materials to dance and formation, props and choreographic presentation.
• Creative transition from one dance sequence to another.
• Blocking, neatness of the whole ensemble.
• Overall theme or concept of the presentation.

B. PERFORMANCE AND IMPACT – 20%
• Mastery, timing and synchronization of dance movements and other forms of choreography.
• Expression and characterization of the performances.
• Confidence and enthusiasm of the performers
• Discipline of performers

C. PRODUCTION DESIGN – 30%
• Aesthetic appeal, artistic quality and appropriateness of costumes, props, and colors.
• Relevance of props and sets to the presentation

D. MUSICALITY– 20%

7. The ranking method will be used in the selection of winners to break the tie, if any, the mode of the judges ranking will be used. If such is ineffective, the point system will be used. Should there still be a tie, the chairman of the board of the judges will have to break it.

9. The participating barangays must submit a completely accomplished entry form with list of participants and photocopy of ID’s not later than September 14, 2017, Thursday, 1PM at the Public Information Office in City Hall.

10. Only 15 entries will be accepted in a first come, first serve basis.

11. A briefing of all official representatives will be held on September 14, 2017, Thursday, 1PM at the Public Information Office in City Hall.

12. Drawing of lots will be done right after the briefing. The organizer shall draw entry numbers for the participants who are not around during the briefing.

13. The organizer shall not be held responsible and liable to any untoward incidents that may occur during the contest. However, pre-cautionary measures shall be exercised throughout the course of the competition to ensure the safety and protection of the participants.

3. Registration forms are available at the Public Information Office (PIO), City Hall, or in the official Facebook page of Zamboanga Hermosa Festival or the official website of the City Government of Zamboanga, www.zamboangacity.gov.ph.

4. The first fifteen (15) couples to submit a fully accomplished entry form with the necessary requirements will be allowed to join per category. Incomplete registration forms will not be accepted.

5. The last day of submission of the registration form will be on September 15, 2017, Friday, 9:00 A.M. at the Public Information Office (PIO), City Hall. This is also the date and time of the contest orientation meeting and briefing.

6. There shall only be one category for this competition – the Latin-American discipline (Cha-Cha-Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso-doble and Jive).

8. Competing couple must strictly follow the dress regulations of the World Dancesport Federation.

9. The City Events Team limits only to fifteen couples per category thus, we will only entertain the first 15 entries to signify participation by submitting the fully filled up official entry form.

10. In all dances, timing, basic rhythm and movement will take precedence over the other fields of adjudications so that if the couple repeatedly makes mistakes in the category, they must be placed last in the dance.

11. Only one (1) foot is allowed off the floor.

12. All competitors must attend rehearsals as requested by the organizers.

13. Competing couples must be at the playing venue one (1) hour before the competition.

14. No competing couple or representative shall contact in any way or manner to any of the adjudicators in connection with critiques or ratings.

15. The adjudicators’ decision is final and non-appealable.

16. All persons attending this event, whether as spectators, competitors, officials or guests of the organizers shall be bound by the rules of this event and by participating automatically become obliged to adhere to them.

17. There shall be three adjudicators in this competition who have been selected by the organizers according to their competence and expertise in the field of ballroom dancing.

18. The chairman of the board of adjudicators shall be responsible for the decisions concerning ties or any problems over ranks.

Judging System
1. The heat will depend on the number of participating couples. During the elimination round, check mark system will be used to select the number of couples requested by the Tournament Manager.

2. In the final round, each judge shall place all the competing couples in order of merit in each of the dances. The judge shall mark his first couple, second couple, third couple, and so on in each of the dances.

3. A judge must not tie couples for any place in the final of any dance.

4. The winner of a particular dance is the couple who is placed first by an absolute majority of the judges; second, the couple who is placed second or higher by an absolute majority.

5. The remaining positions are allocated in a similar way.

6. The couple with the largest majority shall be allocated the position under review and the couple with the next largest majority, the following position.

1. The competition is open to all professional couturiers 18 years old and above.

2. Registration forms are available at the Information and Communications Division, City Hall Annex, Zamboanga City, or may be downloaded at www.zamboanga.gov.ph.

3. Incomplete registration forms will not be accepted. Complete registration form means a fully accomplished registration form with the complete Gown Description or synopsis together with the sketch of his/her mascota entry on a ¼ sized illustration board.

4. The last day of submission of the registration form will be on September 22, 2017 (Friday) 9:00 AM at the Public Information Office in City Hall. This is also the date and time of the orientation meeting. All participants are required to attend.

6. The creation should be a newly made mascota, not purchased, borrowed nor recycled. The theme for this year is “Brilliantes” focusing on the different birthstones and gemstones such as Aquamarine, Amethyst, Diamond, Topaz, Opal, Emerald, among others.

7. The pre-judging will be conducted on October 7, 2017 (Saturday) at 11AM at the 2F Centro Latino, Paseo del Mar.

8. The competitors’ time allotment is from 8AM to 10:30AM to set up their mannequins and mascota at the Centro Latino Lobby.

9. The competitors should provide their own mannequins/fitting form and other necessary props for the display of their mascota creation during the pre-judging.

10. The competitors should provide a short description of their mascota creation mounted on a ¼ sized illustration board.

11. Craftsmanship and design concept will be judged during the pre-judging.

12. Criteria for judging are as follows:

CRAFTSMANSHIP 25%
Workmanship with the 6 components of the mascota

DESIGN AND CONCEPT 25%
Artistry, color combination and creativity

SUITABILITY AND FITNESS 25%
How the creation fits the model and proper wearing of the mascota

STAGE BEARING AND IMPACT 25%
Deportment and stage presence

Total: 100%

13. Mascota creation can be retrieved the day after the pre-judging.

14. Competition proper will be on October 8, 2017, Sunday, at 7PM at the Garden Orchid Hotel Theater.

15. Competitors must have their own models for the competition proper.

16. Only One (1) make-up artist and the designer or his/her representatives are allowed to assist the model in the dressing room located at the back stage.

17. Make-up and other necessary requirement(s) of the model will be provided by the competitor.

18. The competition will be approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

19. All competitors together with their models must be at the venue at least 30 minutes before the show starts. Latecomers will not be allowed to join the competition.

Category 1 – Song Composition
1. The original song composition should be written in Zamboanga Chavacano.

2. The theme for this year’s song festival is Anthem Music. These are songs that elicit inspiration, uplifting, strongly identified with a group or individual, and evoke grandeur, elation and pride.

3. The song could be in any genre: pop, acoustic, rnb, rap, rock, soul, gospel, etc.

4. The message of the song can cover a variety of concepts: love, patriotism, empowerment, positivity, etc.

5. A composer can only submit one entry.

6. A total number of 15 entries will be accepted. The first 15 submissions with complete requirements and which adhere to the guidelines will be included in the competition.

7. The song should be recorded and saved in a Compact Disc (CD) as a data file – the voice (melody) and accompaniment – in .mp3 or .wav format with a bitrate of 320kbps.

8. The lyrics and credits should be in a Word file, encoded using TIMES NEW ROMAN as font style with font size of 14, and included in the CD.

9. The entry must be submitted in .mp3 format together with the lyrics and filled out entry form. Email the entry files at zambocitygovt@gmail.com with the subject line “Original Chavacano Video Music Festival 2017 Entry” on or before September 1, Friday, 5PM.

10. There will be a pre-selection committee appointed by the festival organizers, largely constituted by the people involved in the field of music. Their task is to select the finalists eligible for competition and provide critiques and suggestions to further improve the composition prior to the actual competition. Entrants will be officially notified after the selection.

11. After the preliminary judging, entries may be modified/enhanced for final submission based on the feedback of the pre-selection committee.

13. Prizes are as follows:
First prize – P15,000.00 and a Plaque
Second prize – P10,000.00 and a Plaque
Third prize – P7,000.00 and a Plaque
Consolation prize – P3,000.00 and a Certificate of Participation

Category 2 – Performance Competition
1. This competition is on the performers / interpreters of the song. The performer may not necessarily be the same singer in Category 1.

2. The competition proper will be held on October 7, Saturday, 7PM at the Centro Latino, Paseo del Mar.

3. Musical accompaniment may be live or canned. The performers should provide their own instruments and instrumental music should be given to the sound operator to be tested an hour before the competition.

5. Prizes are as follows:
First prize – P10,000.00 and a plaque
Second prize – P7,000.00 and a plaque
Third prize – P5,000.00 and a plaque

6. A briefing of all official representatives will be held on September 20, Wednesday, 2017, 1PM at the Public Information Office in City Hall.

7. Drawing of lots will be done right after the briefing. The organizer shall draw entry numbers for the participants who are not around during the briefing.

8. Decision of the Judges is final and non-appealable.

Category 3 – Music Video
1. The music video is a visual story telling of the Original Chavacano Music record using Cinematography or Animation.

2. Running time must not exceed 6 mins including opening and closing credits (if there is any).

3. Entry works must be submitted in this format:
DVD – must contain full or high‐definition .mp4 data file, with a frame size of at least 1280x720, 24fps.

3. Everything is assumed to be an original creation. Stock footages may be used as long as this is properly acknowledged or credited. Failure to acknowledge or provide credit to the rightful copyright owners will result in the works being disqualified from the competition.

5. All entries will be posted in the official facebook page: “Zamboanga Hermosa Festival” (fb.com/ZamboHermosaFest2014). The entries will be subject to public voting thru Likes and Shares. The entry with the highest number of votes will be given the Voter’s Choice award. Last day of voting is on October 7, 2017 (Saturday) at 12NN.

6. The jury will decide based on the guidelines established by the festival committee. The jury has the power to declare (or not) the winner/s. The decision of the jury is deemed final and conclusive, and cannot be questioned, challenged or appealed against on any ground.

7. All music video entries will be judged based on the following criteria:

a. Editing (How it’s put together) 35%: This includes the technical aspects of the AMV, including technical execution of special effects, cutting, fading, and pacing of the images to the music.

b. Cinematography (How it looks) 25%: This includes the overall quality of the AMV visual and audio components. This also includes how special effects enhance or detract from the video. The choice of images and placement to the soundtrack also play a role.

c. Creativity (How original it is) 20%: This includes the creative use of footage and music to make the video into something unique.

d. Artistic Vision (Was there a message or theme?) 20%: This is an assessment of the boldness and clarity of the editor’s vision or theme. It also includes the mood and atmosphere created by the audio and visual selections and the visceral impact it has on the audience, good or bad.

8. The entry form (hard copy) must be sent together with the CD containing the soft copy of .mp4 data file stored in a DVD (one entry per DVD properly labeled with entry title) and signed authorization/agreement/waiver form;

9. Entry forms and other entry requirements / materials must be placed inside an A4 or Long size document envelope. This must be properly labeled as “Original Chavacano Video Music Festival”, and submitted at the Public Information Office, City Hall, NS. Valderrosa St., Zamboanga City.

10. The deadline for submission of entries is on September 20, 2017, Wednesday, 1PM. The organizers will not be held responsible for entries received after the deadline thereby resulting in the exclusion from the competition and program.

11. There will be Premiere Screening for all entries to officially launch the Original Chavacano Video Music Festival 2017 on September 28, Thursday, 6PM at CityMall Tetuan, Zamboanga City.

12. The top 5 music videos will be shown in between the competition proper on October 7.

13. Prizes are as follows:
First prize – P20,000.00 and a Plaque
Second prize – P12,000.00 and a Plaque
Third prize – P8,000.00 and a Plaque
Voter’s Choice Award – P3,000.00 and a Plaque

A parade of lights-decorated and illuminated floats of various shapes and sizes showcasing any of Zamboanga’s iconic landmarks, symbols, products, or the stories, legends, multiculturalism and dynamism of its people.

Guidelines
1. The competition is open to any person, group, organization, institution or company.

2. Registration forms are available at the Information and Communications Division, Office of the City Mayor, City Hall, Zamboanga City or online at www.zamboanga.gov.ph.

3. Incomplete registration forms will not be accepted. Complete registration form means a fully accomplished registration form with the complete Float Description or synopsis together with the sketch of his/her entry on a ¼ sized illustration board. The description and explanation shall be read during the actual day of the parade as the float approaches the end point of the parade route.

4. The last day of submission of the registration form will be on September 29, 2017, 4:00 P.M at the Public Information Office, City Hall. This is also the date and time for the orientation meeting for all participants of the float competition.

5. Entries may use any type of vehicles or contraptions which may be motorized, mechanical or animal driven. Floats should showcase any of Zamboanga’s iconic landmarks, symbols, products, or the stories, legends, multiculturalism and dynamism of its people.

6. Entries are encouraged to use indigenous/recycled materials illuminated by any light source (i.e. bulbs, LED lights etc.) but fire and pyrotechnics are strictly prohibited.

7. The maximum height for all floats shall be 12 feet from the ground. The minimum width/span is 5 feet and a maximum of 10 feet.

8. The judging of entries shall be on the day of the parade, October 10, 2017 (Tuesday) and shall start exactly at 6PM. Route of the parade starts at the San Jose Road (fronting Baliwasan Elementary School) towards Paseo del Mar. All competing floats shall be displayed at Paseo del Mar for public viewing at least an hour.

9. The float contestants will draw lots for the sequence of the floats and street assignments for assembly purposes during the final briefing of all parade participants. Date to be announced later.

10. The organizers shall carefully select a panel of judges and their decision shall be considered final and therefore not appealable.

11. The organizers reserve the right to disqualify any entry that fails to abide by the stipulation signified in this contest guidelines.

12. Criteria for judging are as follows:

• Symbolism (20%) – The entry should project the beauty of Zamboanga’s iconic landmarks, symbols, products, or the stories, legends, multiculturalism and dynamism of its people.
• Design (40%) – This pertains to the concept and artistic merits of the design taking into consideration Balance, Proportion, Emphasis and Repetition, Harmony and Rhythm as primarily reflected in shapes/images and colors
• Execution and Luminance (40%) – How the design is realized, how the float is made and the use of lights are the focus in this criterion. For consideration are the quality of craftsmanship, stability of structure and decoration, choice and creative use of materials including brilliance of lights.

A. GENERAL INFORMATION
1. The photography contest is open to all amateur and professional photographers.

2. Registration for photo contest participants will open October 1, 2017 at the Public Information Office (PIO), City Hall Annex at 8:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M. or may be downloaded at the official Facebook page of Zamboanga Hermosa Festival.

3. Registration is free of charge.

4. The photo may be taken using any mode: Film or Digital.

5. Both scanned/soft copy 12 Megapixel at 300dpi (in a CD or USB) and printed copy in 10R (10x12) of any orientation must be submitted to the organizers.

6. All entries must be related to the competition theme: “Zamboanga En Movimiento” or “Zamboanga In Motion”. All entries must be taken starting October 1, 2017.

7. Deadline for submission of photo entries will be on October 20, 2017 (Friday) at 5:00 PM at the City Hall PIO, with fully accomplished entry forms.

8. Final entries shall be submitted as un-mounted 10”x12” Photo Print. Each entry must be in an envelop with no markings.

9. Entries must be candid shots: not deliberately posed. Although some degree of effort can be done in posing your subjects, we however discourage photographers to bring their own models/talents like one would do on a photo assignment or photo shoot.

10. If there are identifiable people in the photo and was taken in a non-public space, it is the responsibility of the photographer to obtain permission to use the photo.

11. Identifying marks, signs and address to insinuate in formation of ownership is strictly prohibited on the photo entry.

12. Photos will be on display from October 21 to 29 at CityMall Tetuan and will be subject to public voting for the Voter’s Choice Award.

13. Awarding of winners will be held at CityMall Tetuan on October 28, Saturday, 1PM.

14. Decision of the designated Board of Judges shall be final and unappealable.

B. RULES OF THE CONTEST
1. Photo must be taken in Zamboanga City from October 1 to 20, 2017.

2. Contestants may submit up to 3 photographs total. Each entry must be provided with a title, date, location and a short description.

3. All entries must be submitted on or before October 20, 2017, 5PM at the Public Information Office, 2F City Hall Annex Bldg with its duly accomplished forms. Non-attachment of these requirements would mean immediate disqualification.

4. Post production like exposure control (dodge and burn); color saturation (control); creative cropping are allowed. Even conversion to black and white color toning (sepia, blue, selenium, etc) as long as it’s done across the frame and not only in selected areas is acceptable.

6. All finalist and winning entries shall become a property of the City Government of Zamboanga and shall have the right to use the photos. The photographer, however, may use the photographs or variants of the same composition in any other purpose.

7. By submitting, contestants must agree to the following:
• I hereby give permission to the City of Zamboanga or anyone authorized by the City of Zamboanga to use and/or reproduce any or all digital images for any purpose including multi-media publications (print, Internet, broadcast television, presentations and internal City use) without compensation to me.
• I understand that my submittal may be used in its entirety or in part and may be revised or combined with other images for use by the City and its designees.
• I understand that any digital images submitted will become and remain property of the City.
• I understand that any digital images submitted may be reviewed by the public and may be displayed in City and non-City facilities.
• I have received permission from all person(s) in the photograph(s) for use of their image as part of my entry into the competition.
• I certify that the photos I submitted are unique and original, taken by me and does not infringe upon any copyright or patent.
• I certify that I have read and understand the rules of the contest.

8. Any submission received after the entry deadline will not be eligible.

9. Judging of entries is scheduled on October 28, 2016, Friday.

10. The decision of the Board of Judges is final and applicable.

11. The top three photos will receive a certificate of recognition and will be awarded with the following prizes:
• 1st Prize – P10,000
• 2nd Prize – P7,000
• 3rd Prize – P5,000

12. The other twelve (12) finalists will receive a cash prize of P3,000 and a Certificate of Recognition.

13. For inquiries, contact Cedrick Zabala of the Special Events Team at 990-1356. Visit the official Facebook page of Zamboanga Hermosa Festival for more updates.

OFFICIAL RULES AND GUIDELINES
1. The Zamboanga Hermosa Festival Street Dance competition is open to any group, organization, institution or communities in Zamboanga City and Zamboanga Peninsula Region.

2. There will be three categories in the competition namely;

• Elementary Category (Open to Elementary Schools in Zamboanga City)
• HS and College Category (Open to HS and Colleges in Zamboanga City)
• Open Category ( Open to any group, institution, barangay, city or municipality in Region IX)

3. The competition is composed of two phases namely;
• Street dancing– 40% of the total score
• Showdown – 60% of the total score

4. The minimum number of performers per entry is fifty (50) and the maximum is one hundred (100) members.

5. The minimum number of musicians per entry is twenty (20) and the maximum is fifty (50).

6. Solo performances will not be allowed during the entire presentation.

7. Street dance should be performed continuously in a forward-moving manner. Street dance spot performances will be at City Hall, the City Fire Station and ABS CBN Zamboanga.

8. During the Final Showdown at the Grandstand, entries should include at least a minimum of two (2) minutes and a maximum of three (3) minutes interpretation of the official festival music provided by the organizers. The festival music maybe reinterpreted in various movements, provided it does not lose the essential characteristics of the samba steps and other Latin dances, which is the main focus of the beat.

9. For the Zamboanga-based Elementary, HS and College categories, contingents are encouraged to highlight Zamboanga’s rich and colorful Hispanic culture with samba and latin dances as highlights.

10. For the Open Category, contingents are allowed to showcase the traditions, cultures and dances of their own locality however, prayer and paying homage to Nuestra Señora La Virgen del Pilar with the Child Jesus should be incorporated in the performance.

11. Maximum time of each presentation is eight (8) minutes. Time starts when the first note of the music is heard. Three (3) minutes are allotted to arrange and preset the sets and props and another one minute (1) for taking out all the props and sets after the performance. For every minute or a fraction thereof more than the time allotted, two points deduction will be made from each of the judges’ score sheet. The organizers shall assign an official timekeeper.

12. A minimum of twenty (20) poles with the image of Nuestra Senora La Virgen del Pilar on top should be incorporated in the performance.

13. The City Events Team limits only to 10 contingents per category thus, we will only entertain the first ten contingents to signify participation by submitting the fully filled up official entry form.

14. The use of fire, firecrackers, and pyrotechnics are strictly prohibited. Groups who will use these for special effects or for any other reason will be automatically disqualified.

B. PERFORMANCE – 30%
• Mastery, timing and synchronization of dance movements.
• Expression and characterization of the performances.
• Confidence and enthusiasm of the performer and systematic entrance and exit of the performers and props
• Discipline of performers

B. PERFORMANCE – 30%
• Mastery, timing and synchronization of dance movements.
• Expression and characterization of the performances.
• Confidence and enthusiasm of the performer and systematic entrance and exit of the performers and props
• Discipline of performers

16. The ranking method will be used in the selection of winners to break the tie, if any, the mode of the judges ranking will be used. If such is ineffective, the point system will be used. Should there still be a tie, the chairman of the board of the judges will have to break it.

17. Judges for one competition shall be composed of outstanding Filipino adjust in the field of dance, folk and theatre arts, anthropology, music and other related performing arts.

18. Cash prizes are as follows:
ELEMENTARY and HS & COLLEGE CATEGORIES
1st Place – P150,000.00
2nd Place – P100,000.00
3rd Place – P70,000.00
Best in Musicality – P15,000.00
Best in Costume – P15,000.00

OPEN CATEGORY
1st Place – P300,000.00
2nd Place – P200,000.00
3rd Place – P100,000.00
Best in Musicality – P15,000.00
Best in Costume – P15,000.00

19. Non-winning entries will receive a consolation prize of P15,000.00.

20. Ten percent (10%) of the cash prizes will be given to the choreographers.

21. The participating groups/schools must submit entry form not later than September 19, 2017 (Tuesday) 1:00 P.M at the Information and Communications Division Office in City Hall.

22. Completely accomplish official entry form and list of participants.

23. Participating groups are required to designate one (1) official representative and who will coordinate with the street dance committee. The committee will only deal with the official representatives and nobody else.

24. Any cash prizes will be paid to the official representative whose name and signature appears on the official entry form.

25. A briefing of all official representatives will be held on September 19, 2017 (Tuesday) 1:00 P.M at the Press Briefing Room, PIO, Zamboanga City Hall Annex. Drawing of lots will be done right after the briefing. The organizer shall draw entry numbers for the participants who are not around during the briefing.

26. Pre-judging of the costumes will be done on October 10 (Tuesday) at 8:00AM at the Information and Communications Division Office in City Hall. All costumes should be displayed in their own respective fitting forms for proper appreciation and evaluation of the judges.

27. The organizer shall not be held responsible and liable to any untoward incidents that may occur during the contest. However, pre-cautionary measures shall be exercised throughout the course of the competition to ensure the safety and protection of the participants.

The City Government of Zamboanga will once again spearhead the celebration of the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival - the grandest festival in the Zamboanga Peninsula region. The strength of our communities has been the bedrock of Zamboanga City’s continued resurgence and fortitude in the face of challenges. We have lined up a variety of events to remind us to embrace and welcome the diversities of our culture and practices, and to form strong bonds of friendship across all communities.

Zamboanga city celebrates Festival of Flowers in May, also known as Flores de Mayo, with the Festival de las Bellas y Flores. This competition is one of the highlights of the Summer Festival. It has three components: the gown, the Señorita and the floral arco. This year, the theme is "Los Elementos" or the elements. Designers can get inspiration from any element: fire, water, air, earth, metal, ice or wood. A total of 9 entries competed in this year's showdown of beauty and creativity.
The parade started at the City Fire Station and passed through Mayor Climaco avenue and NS Valderrosa Street, all the way to Paseo del Mar. A fashion showdown was followed at Centro Latino. In the end, five judges determined the winners for each category, and the winners are as follows:

Here are the all the entries and their descriptions. Photos by Ced Zabala and Joseph Lou.

Entry 1. “Fuego” by Archie Palco

Fire has had a very significant role in humanity’s development. Its varied uses show the importance of fire to humankind. It symbolizes power and passion. The concept of the terno is a contemporary silhouette of serpentine pieces cut in Mikado fire red material. The upper bodice sweet-heart cut neckline with a see-through American soft tulle is delicately applique with glittered lace and ruby stones that makes it more appealing and glamorous. The butterfly sleeves complements with the design of the upper bodice.

The layered hip extender emphasizes the shape of the body complemented with a long cathedral trail which is contemporary and modern in style. It reflects the strong character of women of today’s generation. Appliques of glittered lace and ruby stones are carefully adorned making the entire ensemble look feminine and fashionable.

The arco "Requiza" by Dennis Asuncion won 2nd place in the Arco Competition.

2. “El Plata” by Pio Hilario

This terno embodies today’s conservative yet confident and independent Filipina. The terno features the metal element twisted in swirls. The metal represents energy; it gives us a s sense of quality and value just like the empowered women of our country. As a strong element, metal perfectly matches the Filipina character.

With the idea of modernizing the beauty of the traditional terno, the designer worked his magic on this masterpiece. Its empire-cut waist complemented by hand-crafted metal swirl designs highlights the figure, while its intricately embellished top adds a touch of elegance to the piece. The one-tone piece gives a twist to the traditional terno that fits the modern age.

Arco designed by Nathan Aquino and Earwin Rodriguez

3. “Bella Coralles” by Raustin A Siocon III

Bella Coralles a majestic masterpiece that has a correlation to nature’s harmony. The designer is fascinated with the stunning underwater scenery of the sea and the one of a kind coral pink sand of the Great Sta. Cruz Island.

The whole creation is made of layered coral pink hue clothes and laces embellished with turquoise blue bead details and violet cascading laces with fully embellished crystals and rhinestone. The whole creation is accentuated with sea inspired details and mermaid coral headrests.

This masterpiece promotes awareness for us to take care and love our nature for the future generation to see and enjoy the blessings of our mother earth.

Arco designed by Kelvin Fortin

4. “Santo Rosario (The Crown of Roses)” by Usni Sali

“The Rosary” means the crown of roses which reveals the sorrowful, glorious, joyous and the luminous mysteries; with these components, the rosary seeks to change us. The Rosary of Santo Rosario of the Blessed Virgin Mary is to pray primarily for the eye of the soul.

The Filipiniana gown is an inspiration of the holy rosary or santo Rosario. It is associated with the red fabric and other important materials that can be seen in the creation; with these shade of red represents love, fire, passion, romance, desire, joy and strength. The red colored hanging crystals expresses the crowning beauty of the creation itself. It symbolizes the mysteries: sorrowful, glorious, joyful, and the mystery of light. The Filipiniana gown, the Santo Rosario, speaks the true meaning of the everlasting love of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Arco designed by Inshira Mundoc
5. “Belleza de Isla” by Vicky Go Tonggal

Belleza de Isla: beautiful, independent, strong, graceful, calm just like the element she represents. She is truly the one worthy to embody the water element.

The Arco "Cielo" designed by Jonard Bazan won 1st place in the Arco Competition

7. “Marejada” by Geronie Labora

Water is life. About 70 percent of earth’s surface is covered in water. Of all the water on earth, 97 percent is in the ocean. Furthermore, 70% of earth’s oxygen in the atmosphere is produced by marine plants. This is how important water is to our planet earth. This extraordinary “water element” masterpiece is called “Marejada”, a stylistic interpretation of the beauty and biodiversity of the marine ecosystems in our oceans.

The resplendent coral reefs play very essential roles in nature. Marejada is an innovative execution of high fashion using extensive beadworks and different handmade techniques. Fishes made of sequins, spangles and rhinestones complemented with fins made of frosted organz. Corals are made of round beads, diamond pearls, appliques, ostrich feathers, and heavily beaded red and green laces that resemble and underwater plants. Orange starfishes accentuated with white ceramic pearls are strategically distributed throughout this creation.

Clearly an abundance of various techniques and embellishments that replicate the colorful coral reefs, are cleverly crafted to create this pioneering work of art. Each detail is handmade from basic materials to produce this sophisticated masterwork that is bursting with so much intricate details. The ball gown skirt is made of layers of blue metallic tulle to achieve the ombré or monochromatic effect of the ocean waves. This is a fabric manipulation technique that the designer originally discovered and perfected. The hemline of the skirt is made of ruched white frosted organza overlayed with white silver glitter silenka tulle to imitate the seawaves as it approaches the shore.

Marejada is a masterpiece that needs no introduction. Its beauty speaks for itself. A fine work of art that took months to create. An artistic representation that pays tribute to the importance of the ocean’s waters in the sustainability of life on earth.

Arco designed by Elvin Sagun

8. “Aurora” by Joseph Feliciano

The element of Air is the representation of all that we cannot see: our souls, our spirits, our minds, and our hearts – of that what lies beneath or beyond as some scholars say. Purity of the spirit and the heart, clarity of thought within the mind, focus of intent, unhindered sight, are all under the control of the clear soaring unfettered Element of Air. Yet the Air is not always calm – unpredictable and changing. The Element of Wind can easily be like a roaring hurricane but it can also be a playful breeze.

Aurora is a beautiful masterpiece that speaks of harmony, tranquility and ubiquity. This stunning modern mascota in ivory white lace is remarkably embellished with heavily embroidered Lesage lace that bears patterns that resembles the flow of the wind. Pearls, ceramic stones, rhinestones and holographic crytals are strategically scattered throughout this beautiful piece of art. The skirt is a very voluminous serpentina cut with cleverly folded panels and cascading lace effect.

A mascota that is undeniably classy and elegant, this masterpiece is a sophisticated exhibition of delicate taste in high fashion and advance designing techniques that perfectly fits a beautiful, modern and meticulous Zamboangueña.

Arco designed by Gerry Carpio which won 3rd Place.

9. “Floriao” by Federico Navarro

Floriao means “flowers in bloom” especially during the month of May. As a tradition, the Philippines is celebrating “May Flower Festival” or better known to everyone as “Flores de Mayo”. The design is inspired from metallic rose-gold, an element that symbolizes women empowerment, resilient yet with a strong sense of femininity.

The serpentina skirt cut into pieces and the butterfly sleeves are made of Peau de Soie is embedded with intricate beadworks intertwined with strands made of satin forming branches of stalks delicately applique with beaded flowerets and tiny foliage thus complementing to the concept from the word “Floriao”.

Underneath the over skirt, is an embossed embroidered Plaids Tulle giving a silhouette effect and illusion forming a strong foundation to the entire ensemble. This exemplifies the strong characteristics of Filipino Women of today’s generation.

Arco by Ronaldo Enriquez

Jambangan Cultural Dance Company of WMSU opens the fashion showdown in Centro Latino with a neo-ethnic dance performance featuring the different cultures of Zamboanga.

Señorita Jeromei Thea Fabrigas in "Aurora" by Joseph Feliciano. She won 2nd Runner Up in Prettiest Señorita Competition and the gown and arco won 2nd Runner-Up in their respective categories as well.

Youthful, elegant, innocent, beautiful..

Congratulations to all winners and thanks to all participating designers, sylists and señoritas. Special thanks to all organizers, judges offices, volunteers, suppliers and supporters for making this year's Festival de las Bellas y Flores a success! Till next year!

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Cedrick S. Zabala "CSZ97" is a multimedia artist based in the City of Zamboanga. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Information Technology major in Multimedia and Computer Animation. Currently he works at the City Government of Zamboanga under the Mayor's Office as a Public Information Officer, and as a part-time Instructor in Ateneo de Zamboanga University. He is currently taking his Master's Degree in Public Administration in Western Mindanao State University. He lives a life with a passion for the arts, culture, and travel. This blog contains his works and travel journals. Carpe effin' Diem!